How to Cook Ina Garten’s Perfect Beef Bourguignon

Ina Garten, the Barefoot Contessa herself, has elevated this traditional French stew to new heights. Her recipe stays true to the classic roots of Beef Bourguignon while simplifying the process for home cooks. The result? A deeply satisfying dish that’s rich in flavor but light on stress.

At its heart, Ina Garten’s beef bourguignon is all about balance. Tender chunks of beef are slow-cooked in red wine with carrots, onions, and mushrooms, creating a comforting dish that feels elegant yet approachable. The secret lies in Ina’s meticulous attention to detail — each step, from browning the beef to deglazing the pan, builds layers of flavor.

Key Ingredients for Ina’s Beef Bourguignon

The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need to recreate it:

• Beef chuck: Well-marbled for tender, juicy results.
• Red wine: Ina recommends a good dry wine—something you’d happily drink.
• Vegetables: Carrots, onions, and mushrooms add depth and heartiness.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme and bay leaves bring aromatic warmth.
• Stock: Beef stock enriches the sauce.
• Tomato paste and garlic: These add a subtle, savoury kick.

How to Cook Ina Garten’s Beef Bourguignon

Ina Garten’s Beef Bourguignon is a dish that’s as much about the process as it is about the final result. Each step is designed to build deep, complex flavors, transforming humble ingredients into something extraordinary. The process starts with browning the beef to perfection, ensuring a rich base for the stew. From there, layers of flavor are added with sautéed vegetables, robust red wine, and aromatic herbs. Slow cooking allows the beef to become tender and the sauce to thicken into a luxurious consistency.

This recipe isn’t just about following steps. It’s about embracing the art of slow cooking and creating a meal that feels comforting and indulgent. With Ina’s straightforward guidance, even a novice cook can bring this French classic to life.

Here’s an overview of her foolproof process:

1. Brown the beef: Sear the beef chunks in batches to lock in juices and develop a rich crust.
2. Build the base: Sauté onions and garlic, then stir in tomato paste for a robust foundation.
3. Deglaze with wine: Add red wine to the pan, scraping up the browned bits to enrich the sauce.
4. Slow cooking magic: Combine the beef, vegetables, and herbs in a Dutch oven, then let it simmer gently until the meat is melt-in-your-mouth tender.
5. Finish strong: Add sautéed mushrooms toward the end for an earthy, satisfying touch.

Why You Should Try Ina Garten’s Beef Bourguignon

This dish isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, Ina’s beef bourguignon delivers restaurant-quality results without unnecessary fuss. Pair it with crusty bread or buttery mashed potatoes for a meal that’s sure to impress.